Honour Based Violence

You have the right to choose

What is the Choice Helpline?

The Choice helpline was launched on the 16th November 2007. It was the first dedicated helpline in the country to give advice and assistance to anyone who may be suffering from Honour Based Violence or has been or may be forced into marriage.

The service is confidential and Cleveland Police restrict who is able to get access to information held in relation to these matters.

It is important for anyone suffering to realise that you are not alone. There are other people who have been through similar experiences to you. We can put you in touch with national support networks who will advise you in the strictest of confidence.

All the helpline staff have been trained in cultural awareness around Honour Based Violence and Forced Marriage and will assist you wherever they can.

The helpline number will get you straight through to someone who can help you. Your safety is paramount to us.

The helpline is now a regional service as Northumbria and Durham Police joined in December 2008.

Right to choose, Spotting the signs

WARNING!!! This video contains scenes that some people may find disturbing

Honour Based Violence

What is an arranged marriage?

Families of both spouses take a leading role in arranging the marriage but the choice whether or not to accept the arrangement remains with the prospective spouses.

What is a Forced Marriage?

One or more partners do not (or in the case of some vulnerable adults, cannot) consent to the marriage and duress is involved. Duress can include physical, psychological, financial, sexual and emotional pressure.

Forced Marriage is an abuse of Human Rights and cannot be justified on any grounds.

What is Honour Based Violence?

The police definition of Honour Based Violence is:

‘A crime or incident which has or may have been committed to protect or defend the honour of the family and or community’

Honour Based Violence is where a person is being punished by their family or community for actually or allegedly undermining what they believe to be the correct code of behaviour. By not conforming it may be perceived that the person may have brought shame or dishonour to the family.

This type of violence can be distinguished from other forms of violence, as it is often committed with some degree of approval and/or collusion from the family and/or community.